Group ruffled by Mike Tyson NY pigeon show

FILE - In this July 25, 2004 file photo, former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson, carrying books about pigeons, walks to awaiting reporters upon his arrival at Louisville International Airport in Louisville, Ky. The Animal Planet television network has announced a new reality show that will pit Tyson, a novice pigeon racer, against serious competitors. Currently titled "Taking on Tyson," the show promises to bring audiences inside this "intensely competitive and bizarrely fascinating world." (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley, File)
— AP

FILE - In this July 25, 2004 file photo, former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson, carrying books about pigeons, walks to awaiting reporters upon his arrival at Louisville International Airport in Louisville, Ky. The Animal Planet television network has announced a new reality show that will pit Tyson, a novice pigeon racer, against serious competitors. Currently titled "Taking on Tyson," the show promises to bring audiences inside this "intensely competitive and bizarrely fascinating world." (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley, File)
/ AP

NEW YORK 
An animal welfare group wants New York City prosecutors to investigate Mike Tyson's reality television show about pigeon racing.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals says the Brooklyn-based show is cruel to animals and its races could involve illegal gambling.

The show will follow Tyson as he competes in pigeon races. The former world heavyweight champion has raised pigeons all his life but is a racing rookie.

The show airs next year on Animal Planet. A spokeswoman says there have never been plans for wagering on the races. She says the pigeons will be "cherished and respected by their owners," including Tyson.

PETA sent a letter dated March 18 to the Brooklyn district attorney's office requesting an investigation.

District attorney spokesman Jonah Bruno says the office is looking into the allegations.